In which we explore the options for getting round Bristol (*), and the consequences of those decisions.
(*) Excluding Fishponds.

Monday, 23 November 2009

Control Alt Debate

This just in from a concerned St Werburgher:

Dear Friends

You may be aware of the recent campaign by a few local residents againsttrucks, vans and caravans parked in Easton, St Pauls, Montpelier, St Andrewsand St Werburghs.

This activity has extended to vandalism, personal threats and serial complaintsto the police. Local PCSOs at Trinity and Newfoundland have responded byissuing obstruction tickets to legally parked vehicles, along with threats totow and/or destroy them. The people committing vandalism or threateningbehaviour to owners of vehicles have not been challenged.

As a friend of a truck owner and St Werburghs resident, I have beenalarmed by the language of the attacks, which have included stickersreading 'you're not welcome here'. My friend is often afraid to approachher vehicle out of fear of attack and harassment.

I believe we need to broaden representation of the issues involved beyond avocal minority whose prime objection to the vehicles appears to be aesthetic.As residents we should be able to park legally in our own neighbourhood withoutfear of aggression or harassment.

Festival, surfer and camping vans have been part of the economic and culturallife of one of the UK's most diverse and progressive areas for decades. If thecomplainers and threateners succeed in clearing these vehicles off the streets,your own way of life might potentially be the next at risk.

There is a meeting being held at the Jack Brimble Hall, on Lynmouth Road, StWerburghs tomorrow Tuesday 24 November 2009 at 19:00.